14 Dashingly Bold Chandeliers and Shades

Dare to go bare or embrace vivid colors and unusual shapes with lighting fixtures that celebrate their differences

I am a freelance editorial and wedding photographer and Houzz contributor based out of Hershey, PA. Come visit me at 'A Nest for All Seasons' where I write about design, photography and modern garden living!

I am a freelance editorial and wedding photographer and Houzz contributor... More

From humble mason jars to high-end chandeliers, lighting is a great way to show off and live boldly through design. Take a chance with wild colors, oversize shades or unexpected details for instant impact on your space.

Whether you live in a country farmhouse, a city apartment or a suburban tract home, lighting is the easiest feature to switch out easily. You get a huge bang for your buck with a distinctive shade, while a dated chandelier can ruin a perfectly good design. Don't forget the lights, and go a shade different with your lighting choices!

Take the party outdoors. Great shades don't have to stay indoors. Liven up an outdoor room or party with clever shades hung high in the trees. Try metal shades for permanent fixtures or experiment with paper for temporary installations.

Play with mass and scale. The best way to amp up a shade is to give it a few brothers and sisters. This massive installation of large-scale lanterns complements and highlights the upholstery pattern and makes a solid artistic statement.

Pare down to form. Sometimes the best way to update an old shade is to pare it down. Literally strip off the paper or fabric from the shade, give it a new coat of paint and a soft bulb, and let the bones of the design shine.

My favorite on is the last one by John Lum. I need to update the lighting in my bedroom, however living in earthquake country, chandeliers can be a scary proposition! I need to go with something lightweight and not very pointy. Nice ideabook!

Here is a similar Ship Chandelier: This piece is ridiculously whimsical. It reminds me of the ship in the clouds at the end of Peter Pan...
This one is by Canopy Designs Ltd. Shown in Brass with light blue and yellow accents.